Kalijhora

13 kilometers from Mongpu and 28 kilometers from Siliguri tucked away in the Himalayas is the small and relatively less crowded hamlet of Kalijhora. The village is totally covered by the forests of shaal, arjun, segun, eucalyptus and derives its name from the water fall Kalijhora cascading down from a height of 550 meters. Kalijhora literally means black water and the color is definitely more blackish than the mighty Teesta flowing downstream. Mouni Pahar/hill surrounds this quaint little hamlet and Swetkhola and Kalikhola Rivers act as borders of this Kalijhora while the village itself is the border between Bengal and Sikkim.

How to reach Kalijhora falls

Reaching Kalijhora is quite easy because it is located on the National Highway 31A connecting Bengal with Sikkim. You can take any vehicle that is plying towards Sikkim from Siliguri and reach Kalijhora since its enroute to Sikkim via the same route. For accommodation, the forest rest house and PWD inspection bungalow are available. However, both of these require advance reservation.

Attractions in Kalijhora falls

The scenic beauty of Kalijhora is incomparable to any other village and the presence of the waterfall makes it even more attractive. Initially famous as picnic spot because of its proximity to River Teesta, it was only loved by the locals. However, over the last few years there has been a steady influx of tourists at this region. The landscape has altered considerably after the construction of the dam in 2000. This is the perfect spot for lazing around and enjoying natural abundance. The unspoiled greenery along with the consistent orchestration of crickets will enchant you throughout.

The well known Sevoke Bridge commonly called Bagpool is only 7 kilometers from Kalijhora. Latpanchar another tourist spot which is potentially developing into a popular one is located nearby at the end of the forest. Trekkers can trek to reach Latpanchar through the forest trail. You can continue on the same route to Shittong, Pokhritar, Bagora finally leading you to Kurseong-Darjeeling Highway. There is even more adventure waiting for you at Kalijjhora. You can trek within Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary which is only a couple of hours from Kalijhora. Tourists often trek to Kamala Falls within the premises of the sanctuary. However, special permission from the forest department is mandatory.

Discover the Rambijhora Falls at a short distance and also take part in white water rafting during the day. Peshok is a close by spot which is marked with the confluence of Teesta and Rangeet offering an amazing sight. Only 20 kilometers from Kalijhora is Mongpu, famous for Cinchona plantation and Rabindranath Tagore’s summer residence.

Mongpu is a lovely tranquil village in the mountainous Kalimpong sub division in north Bengal. It is about 30kilometers from Darjeeling; 49 kilometers from Kalimpong town and 54 kilometers from Siliguri. Located at an elevation of 3,500-4000 feet, it is famous for cinchona plantation which has lot of medicinal value. Mongpu is also well known as the retreat for the Nobel Laureate Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore.

Attractions of Mongpu

The road taking you to Mongpu from Darjeeling is awesome. Huge tea estates, beautiful scenery punctuated with orchid and cinchona plantations will make the trip worthwhile for you. You will also pass clear streams and flower nurseries which are a common scene in north Bengal. Various species of beautifully fragrant and colorful flowers are grown in these nurseries. The first Quinine factory was established in Mongpu in the year 1864. However, the cultivation has declined in the present times with other alternatives of cinchona.

The biggest highlight of Mongpu is the summer residence of Rabindranath Tagore, the great literary personality. Although Mongpu does not offer a view of the mighty Kanchenjunga, it has its own charm and appeal. It is a peaceful and quiet location where the poet would find inspiration for his compositions. His residence has now been transformed into a museum where objects used by him are on display. Among the exhibits are Tagore’s bed, his mahogany writing desk, poems, verses and exclusive paintings. The poet visited Mongpu 4 times in his lifetime and during his last visit he fell ill and had to be shifted to Kolkata quickly.

How to reach Mongpu

Reaching Mongpu is easy from Darjeeling via Peshok Road from Ghoom taking east towards Takdah. Alternatively, it can also be reached through the National Highway 31A by taking a diversion from Rambhi Bazaar. The journey through Peshok Road takes around 1.5 hours. The nearest railway station from Mongpu is New Jalpaiguri and the airport closest to the region is Bagdogra Airport.

Accommodation in Mongpu

Accommodation in Mongpu is sparse. Since it is not a typical tourist destination, not many accommodation units are available. However, for tourists wishing to stay here can avail of the home stay facilities provided by the residents of the village. The amenities are basic. Some new accommodation units have been set up near Riangkhola River at a distance of 8 kilometers from Mongpu.

When to Visit in Mongpu

The best time to visit Mongpu is during mid June and again in October through December when you will be able to see the cinchona plantations clearly and enjoy the dip in the temperature.